TESTIMONIALS

Faculty Trip Leader Feedback:

"Working with the children in the township of La Langha was the most impactful moment of the trip for me. Being reminded that simple acts of kindness, such as playing a game or giving these students a hot meal, can bring out such joy in these children. It motivated me to think about ways I can give back to children in need here in Toronto and definitely reminded me what a difference these types of organizations like Vousa can make in their community."

Parent Feedback:

"Our son had an amazing experience that he will remember for a lifetime. It was made so memorable by having the opportunity to go with his close friends, meet new friends and bond with the amazing Crescent faculty while learning new life skills. The experience pushed the boys out of their comfort zone as they learnt back country camping skills and gained confidence in exploring new terrain."

Faculty Trip Leader Feedback:

"It’s hard to pick just one favorite memory because there were so many special moments throughout the trip. One of the highlights for me was the connections I made with the Costa Rican guides and elders. I often spent extra time, often at least half an hour or more, speaking with them in Spanish about their community, culture, and family. These conversations were meaningful and gave me a deeper understanding of the local way of life. Additionally, spending time with the boys/ students was another favorite aspect. We had such a supportive and positive group dynamic, which made exploring, learning, and working together feel effortless and enjoyable."

Parent Feedback:

"My son enjoyed the trip to Costa Rica. It really opened his eyes on the many ways people live around the world. Being immersed in a completely different environment- from the language to the food, daily routines, and values - helped him appreciate the diversity of human experience. He was able to gain a deeper understanding of community, sustainability, and resilience by observing how locals live in harmony with nature and support one another. I believe that this experience has expanded his perspective on the world and has deepened his curiosity to learn more about other cultures."

Student Feedback:

"This trip has motivated me to make a difference and become involved in my school and local community. We went on a walk with two indigenous people who taught us the importance of being open minded and having empathy about the several problems indigenous communities across Canada are still struggling with. This makes me motivated to try and fix this problem." Grade 11 Student

Student Feedback:

"The outreach trip has made me want to interact with more people, and see experiences through their perspective when working with others. In Gandoca, sharing was one of their main values, and it has made me more inclusive, and interested in helping others with their struggles."
Grade 10 Student

Student Feedback:

"An important leadership skill I personally felt I developed in the BC/Yukon outreach journey is my ability to lead by voice. Especially within the camping part in Porpoise Bay’s Nine Mile, where through chores, tent setup, and canoeing, I was able to learn to direct and assist by being louder within our collaborative activities. "
Grade 10 Student

Student Feedback:

"This program will definitely help me become become more involved at Crescent. Japan has made me realize that there are a lot of different actions Crescent/ my community could do to improve ourselves. I want to bring some of these values with me back to Crescent. For example, cleanliness. Japan is clean, and smells fresh. Adding this concept to Crescent would be nice. Saving food, not keeping trash in random corners of a room, and making sure everyone puts their garbage in the right bins. Adding on to this, having these new values have increased my personal growth. I have adopted this values and different ideas of culture that will overall better my self, and the community around me."
Grade 12 Student

Report abuse